Vacations give you a chance to get off the phone, unplug and put on your "no-thinking cap". It’s also a great time to deepen your meditation practice. While most people see a holiday destination as a place to relax, “getting there” can be quite stressful. One only has to imagine busy airports, congested traffic, road construction, security checks and suddenly your blood pressure is up a couple of points. It seems like travel always entails a certain amount of waiting around and in our go-go society this is difficult for most people - but it is also the perfect time to meditate.
In the airport, while waiting on a flight, simply close your eyes and follow your breath or your mantra. You may be distracted by everything around you - the flight announcements, muzak, crying babies, belligerent customers - but as you continue your meditation you will find the pandemonium begins to melt away and you will be transported inward. Not only is this a pleasant way to pass the time, it also has the benefit of leaving you refreshed and ready to continue on your trip.
As for you road warriors, fighting traffic is the epitome of stress. Bumper to bumper traffic, road construction and road rage all take their toll. No, we’re not advocating meditating while driving! Instead find a place to pull over. You might even find a special place you may have overlooked or a beautiful vista you’ve never seen before. Now take some time for a meditation session. Some of our most wonderfull experiences during our vacation have been at these rest stops. Use the time to re-centre and refresh yourself. Be mindful of where you are. When you return to the road, your body will thank you for the break and the rest of the journey will be easier.
Bon Voyage and see you in the Gap.